KENT League cricket clubs will be in with a chance of landing a top prize of £5,000 next summer should they win a new national Twenty20 cricket event for amateur players.

The competition is being organised by Kent’s kit suppliers, West Country-based North Gear, who have invited Kent Premier League clubs to take part in the inaugural 2007 event.

North Gear manager and former Kent batsman Simon Hinks hopes to attract 150 teams from across the UK for the first draw and, in future seasons, believes the event will attract lower league clubs.

Hinks said: "We want to see clubs back at the heart of their community, fuelled by fun family events, local rivalry and the chance for national glory.

"This short form of cricket is revitalising the game and this event is already sparking off real enthusiasm."

With potential television coverage of the final, the North Gear Twenty20 Premier League will also provide a stepping stone for young players who want to showcase their talents in a national competition.

The action is scheduled to start in June next year with first stage matches organised within each participating league to minimise travel.

Final rounds will be organised and run centrally by the North Gear Twenty20 Premier League with a final scheduled for a national county cricket ground.